The Gas Hack That Led to Felony Charges – and Other Fuel-Saving Myths

Would You Risk It for Free Gas?

Imagine if every time you swiped your fuel rewards card, your gas pump gave you free fuel. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it was reality—at least for one Nebraska woman who exploited a glitch in the system.

For nearly six to seven months, she double-swiped her card at the pump, racking up an estimated 7,400 gallons of free gas—totaling nearly $27,000–$28,000 in stolen fuel.

The catch? She got caught. Now facing felony theft charges, this story proves that while some “hacks” might seem like the ultimate gas-saving strategy, they often end in disaster.

So, instead of risking legal trouble, let’s talk about the fuel-saving tricks people swear by—and whether they actually work.

DIY Fuel-Saving Devices: Myths vs. Reality

Acetone in Your Gas Tank – Genius or Disaster?

The Claim: Adding acetone to gasoline will improve vaporization and clean your fuel injectors, increasing MPG.

The Reality:

  • No Proven Gains: Extensive tests show no improvement in fuel economy.

  • Possible Engine Damage: Acetone is a solvent that can degrade plastic and rubber components in your fuel system.

  • Old-School Myth: Modern fuel formulas already contain optimal additives—this isn’t the magic fix some claim it to be.

Verdict: Skip this one unless you want a hefty repair bill.

The Fuel Doctor FD-47 – A Plug-In MPG Booster?

The Claim: Plug this device into your cigarette lighter, and it will condition your car’s power supply, increasing fuel efficiency by up to 25%.

The Reality:

  • Nothing But LEDs: Tear-downs reveal it’s just a circuit board with lights—no real fuel-saving tech inside.

  • No Consistent Results: Even in rare cases where users saw slight MPG boosts, results were negligible.

  • Overpriced and Overhyped: It’s basically a fancy night light for your car’s dashboard.

Verdict: Save your money—this one’s more flash than function.

HHO (Water Fuel) Kits – Running Your Car on Water?

The Claim: These kits use your car’s alternator to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, supposedly improving combustion and fuel efficiency.

The Reality:

  • Energy Losses Galore: The electricity required to split water negates any possible fuel savings.

  • Risk of Engine Damage: Uncalibrated hydrogen injection can cause misfires or long-term engine issues.

  • Debunked Many Times: No credible tests show these kits provide meaningful savings.

Verdict: Sounds like sci-fi, but the only thing they’ll lighten is your wallet.

Magnetic Fuel Savers – Science or Scam?

The Claim: Attaching a magnet to your fuel line will "align fuel molecules" for better combustion, boosting MPG.

The Reality:

  • No Scientific Basis: Fuel molecules don’t respond to magnets.

  • Zero Measurable Gains: Independent tests show no increase in fuel efficiency.

  • Better Alternatives Exist: Smart driving habits and maintenance provide real savings.

Verdict: Magnets won’t fix your MPG—they just stick to bad ideas.

A Word of Caution

From gas pump glitches to fake fuel savers, some shortcuts just aren’t worth the risk. Not only can they damage your car, but they can also land you in legal or financial trouble.

Real savings come from buying the right vehicle—one built for efficiency, reliability, and long-term value.

Want Real Savings? Start With the Right Car

  • Instead of gimmicks, invest in a reliable vehicle with fuel efficiency built in.

  • No need for risky hacks—just affordable financing that fits your budget.

  • Get a free AutoCheck history report with every vehicle for peace of mind.

Check out our inventory today and drive home with real savings!

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